Dallas Cowboys starting running back Marion Barber is desperately trying to return from a left quadriceps injury in time for Monday's game against the Carolina Panthers.

But the Cowboys are "leaning toward" holding him out, according to a source.

The Cowboys listed Barber as having limited participation in practice on Friday, something he has been doing since Wednesday.

Barber has been pleading his case to play Monday, according to the source, but the Cowboys believe they have enough depth with Felix Jones and Tashard Choice to be able to rest him for one week.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones says Barber has been "doing more every day." But when asked Friday what he expected in the next game, Jones said he didn't know.

Barber has responded well to treatment and the Cowboys are optimistic that he'll be ready for their game Oct. 4 against the Denver Broncos.

He hurt his left thigh at the end of a 35-yard run on his final carry of the Cowboys' 33-31 loss to the New York Giants on Sunday night. He appeared to stumble on his own just before being tackled at the 7-yard-line. Barber had 18 carries for 124 yards and a 2-yard touchdown.

Jones added the Cowboys have two good options in Jones and Choice if Barber isn't "completely ready."

Matt Mosley covers the NFC East for ESPN.com. Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.